Google Releases Android Wear Preview to Developers

Google Tuesday announced the launch of a new Android-based developer platform specifically geared towards the creation of apps for wearable connected device.

According a blog post by Sundar Pichai, senior vice president of Android, Chrome and apps for Google, the platform is called Android Wear and takes the wristwatch form factor as its starting point.

Specifically, Android Wear aims to create a voice-controlled system for wearables that can bring users relevant information and also control other connected devices.

"Android Wear lets you access and control other devices from your wrist," Pichai wrote in the blog. "Just say 'Ok Google' to fire up a music playlist on your phone, or cast your favorite movie to your TV."

Developers can download a preview of the SDK so they can tailor existing app notifications for watches powered by Android Wear. Google said that some apps will already work well with the system.

Google said it's working with several consumer electronics manufacturers, including Asus, HTC, LG, Motorola and Samsung; chip makers Broadcom, Imagination, Intel, Mediatek and Qualcomm; and fashion brands like the Fossil Group to bring to market watches powered by Android Wear later this year.